Crime
Pickens VA Clinic Shooting Suspect Identified as Lawrence Michels
Nicholas “Nic” Crews, 34, of Marietta, was working as a Social Work Case Manager at the clinic when he was killed.
Authorities in Jasper continue to investigate a tragic and high-profile shooting that occurred at the Pickens VA Clinic, resulting in the deaths of two individuals.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation confirmed that agents were requested by the Jasper Police Department to investigate an officer-involved shooting that unfolded on March 17 at the VA outpatient clinic located on East Church Street.
According to investigators, 34-year-old Nicholas “Nic” Crews of Marietta was working as a social work case manager at the clinic when he was shot by 51-year-old Lawrence Charles Michels of Jasper.
Authorities say Michels had arrived at the clinic seeking a walk-in mental health consultation.
The shooting occurred inside the facility at approximately 1:30 p.m. Crews sustained critical injuries and was airlifted to a trauma center.
Despite extensive medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries the following day, March 18.
Following the shooting inside the clinic, investigators say Michels exited the building while still armed with a handgun.
Outside, he encountered responding law enforcement officers as well as an armed civilian. An exchange of gunfire ensued between Michels, officers, and the civilian.
Michels was struck during the exchange and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed that no law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.
The case remains under active investigation by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Additional details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
Crime
17-Year-Old Javohn Pitts Critically Injured in Accidental Shooting During FaceTime Call in Elsmere, Kentucky
A 17-year-old teenager, identified as Javohn Pitts, remains in critical condition after being shot in the head during an incident involving a handgun at a residence in Elsmere, Kentucky, on Saturday. Police say the shooting appears to have occurred while two juveniles were showing the firearm to others during a FaceTime call.
The incident prompted an emergency response in Northern Kentucky and left the teenager with potentially life-threatening injuries. He was transported by helicopter to a Cincinnati hospital, where he continues to receive medical treatment.
According to the Elsmere Police Department, officers were dispatched to a reported shooting in the 100 block of Garvey Avenue early Saturday afternoon.
When first responders arrived, they found Javohn Pitts suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, emergency personnel arranged for him to be airlifted to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
Pitts remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to the information provided by police. Authorities have not released further details about his medical condition or prognosis.
During their investigation, police recovered a 9mm handgun from the residence.
Investigators believe the shooting happened while Pitts and another juvenile, who was acquainted with him, were displaying the handgun to other people during a FaceTime call. At some point during the incident, the firearm discharged, striking Pitts in the head.
Although the incident is being described as an apparent accidental shooting, authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge and the events leading up to it.
A juvenile suspect was subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. Police reported that the suspect was acquainted with Pitts and has been charged with second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.
Because the individual is a juvenile, authorities have not publicly released the suspect’s identity.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information about the incident may be released as authorities continue reviewing the evidence.
Police are asking anyone who may have information about the shooting to contact the Kenton County Emergency Communication Center at 859-356-3191 or the Elsmere Police Department at 859-474-4785.
Information from witnesses or anyone familiar with the circumstances may help investigators establish a clearer account of what happened inside the Garvey Avenue residence.
At just 17 years old, Javohn Pitts is facing a serious medical battle following the shooting. His critical condition has left those who care about him hoping for positive news as he receives treatment.
The incident is also a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with handling firearms, particularly when a weapon is displayed or handled without proper safety precautions. A firearm can discharge unexpectedly, with consequences that may permanently change lives.
As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with Javohn Pitts, his family, and everyone hoping for his recovery. May he receive the care and support he needs during this difficult time.